First Time Fans  [Top]

For first timers, I suggest sitting up high on the sidelines. You can follow the puck more easily and see the plays develop, although it doesn't look like it they do have plays. You can pick up on angles better up high, also. When I first started watching hockey, I realized I should have paid attention in Geometry class, because hockey is a game of angles. Players don't go to where the puck is, they go to where it will be. These guys are very adept at shooting the puck into the boards and reading the angles and they get to where the puck will be.

Also, as a first-timer, never be afraid to ask questions of other fans nearby. I have found that fans are always ready with an explanation of what is going on and will be happy to do so.

Remember: no question is stupid if you do not know the answer. The game is played in three periods of 20 minutes each. The action is constant, and when you see the teams 'change on the fly', you will be amazed. That is when the puck is still in play and fresh players come onto the ice. Teams usually change shifts every 30-40 seconds. That doesn't sound long, but when you are skating fast and hitting folks, you get winded pretty quickly and need a break. Players will often get about 25-30 shifts a game so the "time on ice" does accumulate. It does look like a Chinese fire drill, with players literally jumping over the boards. You will be fascinated by it, but don't forget to watch the rest of the action. I will promise you this: once you have seen a hockey game in person, you will be hooked. You will be back.

Opposing/Visiting Fans  [Top]

You checked your favorite team's schedule and you see they have a road game to Gwinnett. You want to go but you need some questions answered.

1. How hard are tickets to get?
Not hard at all. The arena holds over 10,000 and unless there is special promotion going on, like kids' jerseys, tickets are usually available at the box office.

2. Where do I sit?
A lot of visiting fans sit in sections 106 and 105, which are to the players' left and directly behind the players' bench. If you are like me, you'll want your guys to see you there and know that they have some friendly faces in the crowd. If you want to sit in your attack twice zone, then sections 100 and 120 are for you.

3. Concessions?
There are the usual burgers, hot dogs, nachos, pizza and assorted beverages. They are reasonably priced but it is arena food.

4. Parking?
The best bargain about coming to Gwinnett...it is free. The prime areas are reserved for the season ticket holders, but there is plenty of parking spots.

5. Can I go behind the arena and see our players after the game?
This is tricky. There was a time when there wasn't any problem doing so. The arena tightened up on security and made it more difficult but not impossible. Check in at the Gladiator Booster Club table. There is always someone there before the game, so ask to see if they have somebody that can take you down after the game. If you are with somebody wearing a Glads jersey you won't get stopped. I have done this many times and only got stopped once and was able to explain to the security folks what I was doing and was allowed to pass by.

6. How will I be treated?
For the most part, Gwinnett fans are pretty good. We want you to feel comfortable and enjoy your stay...as long as your team loses...sorry, I had to say that. But, to be serious for a moment, we do have our share of jerks and I do apologize for them in advance. If you feel your situation is getting out of hand, do not hesitate to talk to an usher or a Show Pro who will remedy the situation. We want you to come back and visit in the future. We are all hockey fans and need to support our teams. I love going on the road and visiting with other fans. I have made friends with many fans of other teams, and once we take to the ice I do want to win, but outside all is good. Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose. Be gracious in victory or defeat. Enjoy your stay!